Topical Encyclopedia In biblical contexts, the term "moulded" often refers to the shaping or forming of materials, particularly in the context of idolatry or craftsmanship. The concept of moulding is significant in understanding the cultural and religious practices of ancient times, as well as the theological implications of creation and idolatry.Idolatry and Moulded Images The Bible frequently addresses the issue of idolatry, condemning the creation and worship of moulded images. In the ancient Near Eastern context, moulded images were often crafted from materials such as metal, wood, or clay, and were shaped to represent deities or other objects of worship. The prophets and other biblical writers consistently warned against the practice of idolatry, emphasizing the futility and sinfulness of worshipping man-made objects. In Isaiah 44:9-10 , the prophet Isaiah speaks against the creation of idols: "Those who fashion idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Those who would speak up for them are blind; they are ignorant, to their own shame. Who fashions a god or casts an idol which profits him nothing?" This passage highlights the folly of moulding idols, as they are powerless and profitless compared to the living God. Craftsmanship and Divine Inspiration While moulded images for idolatry are condemned, the Bible also acknowledges the skill and artistry involved in craftsmanship, particularly when it is directed towards the worship of the true God. In the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, skilled artisans were called upon to mould and shape materials for sacred purposes. Exodus 31:3-5 describes Bezalel, a craftsman filled with the Spirit of God: "And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft." Here, moulding and shaping materials are seen as acts of divine inspiration and service to God. Theological Implications Theologically, the concept of moulding can also be extended to God's creative power and sovereignty. In Genesis, God is depicted as the ultimate Creator, who moulds and shapes the universe and humanity. This divine act of creation underscores God's authority and the inherent value of His creation. In Romans 9:20-21 , the Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a potter moulding clay to illustrate God's sovereignty over creation: "But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, 'Why did you make me like this?' Does not the potter have the right to make from the same lump of clay one vessel for special occasions and another for common use?" This passage emphasizes God's right to mould and shape His creation according to His purposes. Conclusion The concept of moulding in the Bible serves as a powerful metaphor for both the creative power of God and the misguided efforts of humanity in idolatry. While human craftsmanship can be an expression of divine inspiration, it is ultimately God who is the supreme Creator, shaping the world and its inhabitants according to His will. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. p.) of Mould.Greek 4112. plastos -- formed, molded ... That is, "fabricated from 4111 (), 'to mould,' as in clay or wax. The idea is, therefore, of words moulded at will to suit their vain imaginations" (, 329). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4112.htm - 7k 4110. plasma -- that which is molded Strong's Hebrew 4749. miqshah -- perhaps hammered work... Feminine of miqsheh; rounded work, ie Moulded by hammering (repousse) -- beaten (out of one piece, work), upright, whole piece. see HEBREW miqsheh. ... /hebrew/4749.htm - 6k Library God's Sovereignty and Prayer Unless the Flesh were to be Saved, the Word Would not have Taken ... Concerning the Principalities, Archangels, and Angels, and ... Not the Lowliness of the Material, but the Dignity and Skill of ... Human Generation, and the Work of God Therein Set Forth. God Will Bestow Salvation Upon the Whole Nature of Man, Consisting ... The Body Does not Receive God's Image. The Relation of Home to the Church. The King in Exile His Dictum that the Manner of the Likeness must Follow the Manner ... Thesaurus Moulded (2 Occurrences)... (pp) of Mould. Multi-Version Concordance Moulded (2 Occurrences). ... Shall the thing moulded say to him who moulded it, "Why have you made me thus?" (WEY). ... /m/moulded.htm - 7k Mere (56 Occurrences) Cavil (2 Occurrences) Isaac (127 Occurrences) Rameses (5 Occurrences) Mottled (2 Occurrences) Mouldy (2 Occurrences) Hanging (82 Occurrences) First (4693 Occurrences) Corinthians (3 Occurrences) Resources Moulded: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Moulded (2 Occurrences)Romans 9:20 2 Peter 2:3 Subtopics Related Terms |